When I was a little girl, I imagined I would grow up
to be a movie star who performed occasionally on Broadway. On the personal
front, I envisioned being married with five children, all boys! Needless to
say, neither of these dreams became reality, and as my life journey continues
to unfold, it is rarely what I would have predicted. I think I am not unusual
in this respect. I don’t know anyone who could have totally imagined his or her
life the way it turned out. Each of us can get caught up in our disappointments
and struggles: the concerns around health or finances or family that leave us
weak and wilting, rather than remembering those things for which we are
grateful.
Last week, I was blessed to travel back to Long Island
for my friend Pam’s 60th Birthday Party. (You may remember her: she
danced Psalm 100 with my daughter during my Installation service.)
My daughter and Pam giving thanks to the Lord in dance. (photo courtesy of me)
It was a
small gathering, just a dinner party of maybe 10 or 12 close friends. She and
her husband, Eddie, had prepared a Thanksgiving dinner in gratitude for those
invited. Pam then asked each of us to think of three things we were grateful
for and share them around the table as we ate. It was a lovely affair, and all
the more meaningful for the blessings shared.
Friends gathered for Pam's birthday - see her beautiful smile almost exactly center. (photo courtesy of me)
If I’m honest, I have so much to be grateful for. I
have a wonderful job – one that is truly a calling. I get to study the Bible
and praise God and build relationships with others as they travel their faith
journeys as well. While my family life is not what I originally hoped for, I am
blessed with a terrific daughter with whom I enjoy a great relationship. I love
my home, especially the geography on which it sits. As I wash dishes, I look
out over rolling hills and trees. As I sip coffee and read my morning
devotional, I watch the world go by out my living room window as people walk
dogs, exercise, and enjoy the beauty of the cemetery in front of the manse.
We’ve been in the midst of our Discipleship season
this past month, and the Team’s primary hope has been that you will each look
at your own lives and recognize the many gifts you’ve been given. The gifts of
those in your life who love you, the hearth and home that warm you, the food on
the table, the talents you have and can share with others, and the God who made
all of it possible. You’ve been invited to give back in return. To give of your
time and talent and treasure so that the important work that we do at Old
Greenwich can not only nurture you, but others in our community now and into
the future. It is my prayer that you have felt called to respond generously and
with joy.
In closing, the choir has been rehearsing a gorgeous anthem that was sung at the Choral Concert and will be again on Sunday, November 22nd, only this time accompanied by liturgical dance. November 22nd is Thanksgiving Sunday and the text the song is based on is Revelation 5; it sings glory to the Lamb of God, announcing His holiness
and worthiness to be praised by all creation. I’ve had it running through my
head and it feels like a constant reminder of God’s graciousness and
generosity. May we all remember how lucky we are, even in the midst of our
challenges, and respond with grace and generosity in return as we enter the
season of thanksgiving.
